Associated Press, Reuters Issue ‘Kill Notice’ For Palace’s ‘Manipulated’ Kate Middleton Photo

Agencies pulled the image after online users spotted some inconsistencies. (Screengrab via @ChrisShipITV/X)

Photo agencies, including The Associated Press and Reuters, issued “kill notifications” for a new portrait of Kate Middleton with her children, claiming “the source has manipulated the photo” and asking news outlets to “remove it from all platforms.”

The image, released by Kensington Palace, depicts the Princess of Wales with her children – Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte – and was reportedly captured by Prince William. However, the agencies have said they will no longer be disseminating the photo when social media users scrutinised details such as Princess Charlotte’s cuff and Middleton’s missing wedding ring.

ITV’s Royal Editor Chris Ship pointed out some of the inconsistencies:

https://twitter.com/chrisshipitv/status/1766944328847364201/photo/1

The AP said: “it appears that the source has manipulated the image,” while Agence France-Presse (AFP) cited an “editorial issue,” and Reuters withdrew the photo after a “post-publication review.”

Middleton’s absence from the public eye since Christmas Day, save for a paparazzi photo in March and announcements regarding her abdominal surgery, has fueled speculation about her health and whereabouts. The emergence of this portrait has only intensified conjecture.

Despite these concerns, Kensington Palace has remained silent on the matter, declining to respond to inquiries about potential alterations to the photo.